Our General Contractor Process:
From First Call to Final Walkthrough
A clear, step-by-step system so you always know what’s happening, what’s next, and what it will cost.
Our Step by Step General Contractor Process.
At Pacific Builders, we make the process seamless from start to finish. As a full-service design-build firm, everything happens under one roof — architecture, design, permitting, and construction. This all-in-one approach ensures your vision is never lost in translation and your project stays on schedule, on budget, and true to your goals.
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During this phase, a Pacific Builders Project Manager will meet with you to discuss your goals, ideas, and overall project vision—and how we can help bring that vision to life. This is a free consultation designed to give you an opportunity to meet your Pacific Builders Project Manager, ask questions, and determine the best path forward for your project.
Your role: Share your vision, inspiration photos, and must-haves.
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During this stage, the owner will meet with Pacific Builders’ in-house architect to refine and modify the architectural drawings to meet their specific needs. This process can move as quickly or slowly as the owner prefers, depending on the number and complexity of requested changes.
Once the architectural drawings are finalized, the Engineer of Record (EOR) will review them and develop the structural drawings and details. The EOR will also perform the necessary engineering calculations to ensure the building is structurally sound and meets all required codes and standards.
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Once the engineer finalizes the plans, Pacific Builders will submit all necessary documents to the city and make any required revisions to obtain approval. Our team will maintain clear and consistent communication with the city throughout the review process to ensure the plans are approved as efficiently as possible and the building permit can be issued.
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With plans approved, we will begin the construction process. Pacific Builders will serve as the active General Contractor throughout the project, overseeing every aspect of construction. We will hire and coordinate all necessary subcontractors, and any tasks that we can self-perform, we will complete in-house. This approach allows us to maintain greater control over the schedule and provides the owner with more accurate cost savings.
Our team will manage the entire construction process—from sequencing the work and obtaining trade permits to coordinating inspections with the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). We ensure top-quality craftsmanship throughout construction, providing a smooth and efficient build from start to finish.
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When construction is complete, we walk the entire project with you:
Create a punch list of any small touch-ups
Confirm that all systems and finishes are working and installed correctly
Review warranties and care instructions
Our work isn’t finished until you’re truly happy with the result. We’ll check in after completion to make sure everything is performing the way you expect.
Why Our Process Makes Your Project Smoother
Construction should be an exciting experience for owners. However, for most homeowners, the process can feel overwhelming. It’s rarely simple—you often need to hire an architect, apply for permits, coordinate with the plans examiner, and then find a general contractor to complete the project. Along the way, gaps in communication, unexpected delays, and frustrating cost overruns are all too common.
Pacific Builders offers a different approach. As a full-service, design-build general contractor with in-house architectural services, we review constructability early in the design process. This integrated approach saves our clients time and money while eliminating the need to hire an outside architectural firm.
At Pacific Builders we:
Listen first, then recommend solutions
Provide clear, itemized estimates—no surprise add-ons
Handle permits, inspections, and coordination with trades
Communicate regularly so you’re never left guessing
Treat your home with respect from demo day to final clean-up
What You Can Expect When You
Work With Pacific Builders
At Pacific Builders, our core values guide everything we do. We are committed to delivering high-quality work, maintaining clear communication with owners and subcontractors, and proactively solving problems. By focusing on these principles, we ensure every project—regardless of size or type—runs smoothly, efficiently, and successfully.
Trustworthy – No hidden add-ons. Changes are discussed and approved before we move forward. No shortcuts.
Quality Craftsmanship – We stand behind our work and the trades we partner with.
Communication – Constant communication with the owner regarding schedule, project turnover, and project updates
Local Experience – We understand Metro Portland codes, permitting, and building conditions.
Experience the difference for yourself